STL announces compliance with BABA provisions and launches new product series
STL [NSE: STLTECH], a prominent optical and digital solutions provider, today announced that its fiber optic cable products manufactured in the United States meet the ‘Build America, Buy America’ (BABA) provisions set forth in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). This development not only aligns with federal requirements but also significantly bolsters STL’s commitment to supporting the American broadband expansion, particularly in rural areas.
In conjunction with this compliance announcement, STL unveiled its new Rapid series of fiber optic cables. The series includes a variety of designs, such as high-capacity ribbonized cables and ruggedized options suitable for various applications including duct, direct buried, aerial, and last-mile connectivity. This product launch is part of STL’s “In America, For America” portfolio, aiming to enhance the infrastructure for faster and more reliable internet access across the country.
STL’s dedication to the American market is underscored by its $56 million investment in world-class manufacturing facilities. The company’s 168,000 sq. ft. North American headquarters, known as the “Palmetto Plant,” is located in South Carolina and was inaugurated in September 2023 by the Honorable Henry McMaster, Governor of South Carolina. This facility has created 125 full-time jobs and plays a crucial role in STL’s operations, catering to both federal and privately funded broadband projects, including those under the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program.
Paul Atkinson, CEO of Optical Networking at STL, emphasized the company’s role in the upcoming broadband initiatives: “With multiple BEAD projects on the horizon, the next five years will be landmark years for broadband and rural connectivity in the US, and we are very excited to support this program.” He highlighted STL’s commitment to “Transforming Billions of Lives by Connecting the World,” focusing on collaborating with service providers to ensure fast and effective fiber rollouts throughout the United States.
STL stands committed to continuous innovation and the delivery of high-quality, craft-friendly optical products that facilitate quicker network deployments and meet or exceed stringent industry standards.
This commitment is expected to play a significant role in advancing broadband access and enhancing digital connectivity in rural and underserved areas of the country.
STL’s compliance with BABA provisions and the launch of its Rapid series are pivotal steps toward enhancing the U.S. broadband infrastructure. By focusing on product innovation and high manufacturing standards, STL is well-positioned to contribute significantly to the national goal of widespread, reliable internet access, particularly in rural America.